Matrix Metalloproteinases as Mediators of Cutaneous Wound Healing and Tissue Repair

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play an essential role in the intricate process of wound healing of skin by creating a sequential inflammation, tissue generation, and remodelling. MMPs are a family of proteolytic enzymes that degrade components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and are involved in tissue repair and regeneration. Their controlled activity is critical for maintaining the balance between ECM deposition and degradation required for wound closure and for determining whether excessive fibrosis occurs or chronic wounds form. Alterations in either direction would lead to dysfunction or improvement in wound healing, and could be the cause for chronic wounds and excessive scar formation. This review discusses the roles of MMPs at different stages of wound healing, primarily focusing on their functions during inflammatory responses, ECM remodelling, and reepithelialization. We have discussed the interplay between MMPs and their TIMPs (Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteinases), as well as therapeutic strategies to modulate the adverse effects of excessive MMP activity during cutaneous wound healing.